A South Korean court has authorized the arrest of the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol, following an investigation into his declaration of martial law on December 3.
The Corruption Investigation Office had been probing the decision after Yoon failed to respond to three requests for questioning. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced arrest.
The office now has 48 hours to decide whether to extend Yoon’s detention or release him.
However, the Presidential Security Service has hindered investigators’ attempts to search the presidential office and Yoon’s residence, citing national security concerns.
Yoon’s martial law declaration caused a national uproar and was reversed after just hours due to widespread opposition.
The political turmoil escalated when the National Assembly voted for his impeachment on December 14, and the Constitutional Court is now reviewing the vote’s legality.
Choi Sang Mok has been acting president since Friday after lawmakers removed the acting president Han Duck Soo.
